Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid 4MATIC+ adds a PHEV option to the mix.
It looks like AMG is taking the push towards electrification very seriously. The latest model to debut from Mercedes’ performance division in the GLE 53 Hybrid 4MATIC+ plug-in hybrid. This comes as an addition to the mild-hybrid GLE 53 which gets the same petrol engine but with just a 48V system.
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid 4MATIC+ will be available in both SUV and SUV Coupé form, with a slight energy efficiency advantage going to the latter due to its more aerodynamic form. The new Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain still features the same 3.0L inline 6 tuned to 449hp and 560Nm of torque. The improvement in performance comes from new software and an additional nose cooler.
With the PHEV system you get a more powerful electric motor with an output of 100kW and 480Nm of torque. Altogether, the total system output is calculated to be 544hp and 750Nm of torque, which would put it in supercar territory if not for the GLE 53’s enormous weight, thanks in no small part to the new 31.2kWh user-chargeable battery.
Performance on paper should still be very impressive. Mercedes-AMG are promising a century sprint time of 4.7 seconds for both body styles. Probably more impressive is fuel consumption figures posted. With a light enough foot, you can get the GLE 53 Coupé to move 100km on just 1.2L of petrol. A full charge of the battery can theoretically return up to 87km of emissions-free driving up to speeds of 140km/h. Up to 11kW AC charging and optional support for up to 60kW DC Fast charging is available.
In terms of looks and equipment, the changes to the facelifted standard GLE have come here. For this PHEV model, there are some distinct design elements, including the cooling air inflow which is now integrated into the centre of the front guard. There are also specific badges and 21″ light alloy wheels as standard.
On this high-performance model, you also get the AMG high-performance brake system with internally ventilated brake discs. MBUX here has hybrid-specific functions including a charging info and more. Other equipment includes:
- electric panoramic sunroof
- heated front seats
- adaptive high beam assistant
- smartphone integration
- switchable AMG performance exhaust system
- Burmester sound system
- memory package
- 360-degree parking pilot
- Keyless Go package
- Blind Spot Assistant
- AMG steering wheel with optional carbon look and heating
